Wooden Boat Surveys

Wooden boat surveys by someone who's worked on them. With years of hands-on experience maintaining and restoring traditional craft, I provide clear, independent surveys backed by practical knowledge—not just theory.

Wooden boats demand a different level of understanding. Every vessel tells its own story through the condition of its timber, fastenings, structure and repairs. Knowing the difference between honest age, good craftsmanship and genuine structural concern only comes from experience.

At March & Co Marine, wooden vessels are a particular area of expertise. Having spent years working aboard, maintaining and restoring traditional craft, I understand how these boats are built, how they age, and where problems commonly develop. My surveys are designed to provide a thorough assessment while recognising that no two wooden boats are ever the same.

What is inspected?

Every survey is tailored to the vessel, but typically includes inspection of:

  • Hull planking and fastening condition

  • Keel, stem, deadwood and backbone structure

  • Frames, floors and structural timbers

  • Decks, coachroof and deck beams

  • Internal bilges and hidden structural areas where accessible

  • Evidence of rot, fungal decay or timber degradation

  • Previous repairs and restoration work

  • Signs of movement, distortion or structural weakness

  • Moisture ingress and areas requiring further investigation

  • Spars, rigging and deck fittings (where applicable)

  • Machinery installation and onboard systems

  • Safety equipment and general maintenance standards

Buying A Wooden Boat

Why do I need a specialist wooden boat survey?

Wooden boats require a different approach to modern GRP or steel vessels. Construction methods, timber species, fastenings and repairs all need to be assessed with an understanding of how these boats were built and how they age.

Can a survey save me money?

Yes. A survey can identify structural defects, maintenance requirements and future repair costs before you buy, helping you make an informed decision or negotiate the purchase price.

What happens after the survey?

You'll receive a detailed, easy-to-understand report outlining the vessel's condition, highlighting any significant defects and providing practical recommendations to help you plan maintenance, repairs or restoration.

Why Choose March & Co Marine?

  • Extensive practical experience working on traditional wooden vessels.

  • Hands-on restoration and boatbuilding knowledge.

  • Independent, detailed and evidence-based reporting.

  • Clear recommendations prioritised by urgency.

  • Experience surveying historic vessels, classic yachts and traditional working craft.

  • Surveys carried out throughout Suffolk, Essex, Norfolk, Kent, London, Hampshire, Sussex and across the UK by arrangement.

If you're considering purchasing a wooden boat or simply want to better understand the condition of your vessel, I'd be happy to discuss the most appropriate survey for your requirements.